Though many scholars believe that all spiders trace their roots back to the ancient kingdom of Azjol-Nerub, the giant spiders of Kalimdor have made a claim to the shadowy corners of Ashenvale Forest. Though not necessarily evil, wild spiders can become fearsome opponents if they feel their nests have been defiled.W3Man 144
Spiders are fond of using poison spit and throwing webs upon their opponents. They are found in almost every continent of Azeroth and even in Outland, with the exception of deserts (such as Tanaris) and snowy peaks (such as Dun Morogh). However, spiders can also be found inside caves or dungeons of those regions generally related to quests.

History

Poisonous and huge, these spiders are found in dwellings long forgotten by time and man. Their bite is venomous, and their many legs make them an agile opponent. Having grown so large from years of hunting increasingly larger prey, they have learned to hide in dark places and attack from the shadows.W1ManH 38

Orc description

The Warlock clan have used their magiks to create the hideous abomination that they call spiders. Mutated from the smaller creatures commonly found in the area, these huge poison fanged beasts are twisted and predatory. While some are controlled by the Warlocks, many grow too large to maintain control over, and are released into the forbidden lands. These giant spiders lurk in dark, dank places and spin their webs, seeking to entrap the unwary.W1ManO 58

Hunter pet

Though hunters can respec their pet spiders into Ferocity or Tenacity, they are inherently Cunning. In addition to the abilities that come standard with all pets ([Cower], [Growl], [Avoidance]) and those given to their natural or retrained specialization, all spiders are given the following:

Spiders can root enemies with place with Web, making them of special interest to some hunters. The spindly spider model, found both on Bloodmyst Isle and in Outland, makes a high-pitched screeching noise when it attacks; some hunters use it to "creep out" other players.

Subspecies

The subspecies below can be tamed by hunters. Note that Forsaken hunters start with a black widow.